Marvel fans fight back after latest game tells streamers they can’t give ‘negative reviews’

MARVEL is preparing to release a new hero PvP shooter to rival the likes of Apex Legends and Overwatch.

Developed by Netease, the team offered a select number of streamers and influencers a first look at the upcoming game, Marvel Rivals, with a closed alpha test.

It’s standard practice at these preview-style events for participants to sign contracts like NDAs about what they can show their audience and things they can talk about.

This will usually include things like plot points, or in games like this, certain characters and weapons the team is hoping to announce later.

However, professional League of Legends player Brandon Larned blew the whistle on the Marvel Rivals contract’s concerning ‘Non-Disparagement’ clause.

The contract clause reads: “The content creator agrees to not make any public statements or engage in discussions that are detrimental to the reputation of the game.

“This includes, but is not limited to, making disparaging or satirical comments about any game-related material such as game features, characters or music.

“Engaging in malicious comparisons with competitors or belittling the gameplay or differences of Marvel Rivals or providing subject negative reviews of the game.”

It is not uncommon for streamers to be paid for this type of content, and these kinds of clauses are sadly not uncommon when it comes to online content creation.

However, this is often not made public knowledge, and players could be influenced to buy the game without knowing about these clauses.

Netease has apologised for the “miscommunication” with the streamers.

A statement spotted by Eurogamer reads: “We are aware that there are inappropriate and misleading terms in the commitment regarding sharing non-disparagement content.

“We sincerely apology [sic] for the miscommunication and your unpleasant experiences!

“Our stand is absolutely open for both suggestions and criticisms to improve our game. And we [sic] our mission is to make Marvel Rivals better satisfy players by those constructive suggestions.

“We are now working on revise [sic] the miscommunication terms from our commitment.

“The progress will be shared with every creator in a timely manner.”

Streamers, including Larned, have already begun streaming Marvel Rivals, and it’s unclear if the agreement has been changed.

If you want to read more about gaming releases, check out our Sand Land review.